For Those of You Who Have Had a Tubal

I had one after my 3rd child (right after c-section). I've had absolutely no changes. This was 4 years ago.

I had mine done at age 22. I didn't have any problems I can recall, but things naturally can change after having a baby anyway. I wonder about the 50% hysterectomy statistic...

That said, you DH having a vasectomy is a much less invasive procedure, so maybe there is a way around the waiting period...

My sister had it done after her 3rd and she said it made it lighter and shorter, an average of 3 days a month.

I had mine done at age 37 - about 6 mos after having my second child and I've noticed no change in my periods at all. I never really had cramping, and I still don't. I'll be 40 soon, and still no menopausal symptoms.

I was in my 30s when I had a tubal... everything was fine but then I started having a lot of pain 3 weeks out of every month. They finally went in and did exploratory surgery and the doc said I had the worse case of entremosis (cannot figure out how to spell that word). I ended up having my uterus and a tube & ovary removed and it has been wonderful since. I was told that about 50% of people that have tubals will end up with a hysterectomy.

Hi S., I had mine done a couple of years after I had my daughter. And it's been 12 years now and honestly I haven't had any postmenopausal symptoms. My periods have been the same, no cramps,etc. I'm happy I got this done. Hope this helps. Good luck. Patty S

Dear S.,
Menopause is a hormonal thing so as long as they leave your ovaries alone, you shouldn't have menopause symptoms. Ligation blocks the egg from being fertilized and imbedded in the uterus. Your body will still produce the uterine lining in preparation for pregnancy each month so you'll still have periods.
I know many women who had their tubes tied after a vaginal birth and they do it with a scope so there is minimal cutting or suturing of the skin. You may need to be in the hospital a day or so longer than just with a delivery of your child, but with 6 kids, it shouldn't be a problem insurance wise, etc. You may or may not experience more cramping afterwards, it's hard to say. I know a woman who had her ligation reversed after she remarried and they had a healthy little girl. It's much easier for men to get "fixed" but if you are already in the hospital and you've talked to your doctor about your plans beforehand, it shouldn't be a problem and they would be the best to explain the actual procedure based on your unique health background, etc.
One thing I can promise is that it's WAY easier than a C-section birth as far as discomfort and healing.
My question is, why is there a huge waiting period for your husband? Is it an insurance thing? There are clinics that will do it on a sliding scale or free of charge. I know how men feel about their nuts, but it takes about 15 minutes, one stitch and they're done.
You have about 4 months to talk to your husband about this.

I hope you get some great advice to help you in your decision. You'll be fine, but it's another thing to deal with after giving birth.

Best wishes!

I had mine 3 years ago and was a bit concerned about how it would affect my period. I'm happy to report all is fine. My periods are not heavier or longer. No menopausal symptoms (I'm 37).
I opted for a tubal because I was already having a c-section and it is not any additional recovery when you are already having a c-section.
Good luck!

Dear S.,

I was going to start off saying the exact same thing as Diane. She has said it all.
So I'll just say. Best of luck.

Mine aren't more painful necessarily, but heavier and last longer.